Essential Oil Quick Usage Guide – Airborne Bacteria

Cold and flu season can wreak havoc on our immune systems, especially during the holidays when most gatherings are held inside and people can easily pass seasonal illnesses from one person to another. One of the main ways we catch a cold or flu is actually by inhaling the airborne bacteria from coughs, sneezes, and even from just the breath of a person who is sick.

Once inhaled, our immune systems either take care of the invading germs and we stay well or our immune system gets run down and “overthrown” by the bacteria and we catch a cold.

One surprisingly effective way to limit the number of airborne bacteria in our homes is to diffuse essential oils. It has been proven that by diffusing essential oils in a room for even just 5 minutes will allow the oils to kill off bacteria and mitigate its colonization for the next 60 minutes (source).

Pretty effective if you ask me!

The Best Essential Oils for Airborne Bacteria

Below is a good list of some of the most effective essential oils for inhibiting the spread and growth of airborne bacteria when used as a spray or when diffused into the air.

Run the diffuser before guests arrive and even while guests are in your home. The scent of essential oils can be a very festive and inviting fragrance that not only smells nice but helps keep airborne bacteria to a minimum.

You can also make room sprays that can double as disinfecting sprays for frequently touched objects, bed sheets, etc. by adding 20 drops of essential oil to 2 oz of water in a spray top bottle.

Shake well before use.

What have been your favorite essential oils to use for controlling airborne bacteria? Please share in the comments below!

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